MEDIA RELEASE20 March 2012Cairns job seekers supported by new pilot program

A Job Services Australia (JSA) provider located in Cairns' Earlville area was selected to take part in a new Australian Government initiative to establish best practice and improve education and employment outcomes for local job seekers.

"The Demonstration Pilots are an innovative approach to addressing disadvantage for job seekers," Ms Ellis said.

"Funding quality employment services to trial improvements in service deliveryand sharing the results nationally will help extend the benefits and dignity of work to more Australians."

"PVS Workfind will work with Pathways Rehabilitation and Support Services to demonstrate formal partnerships between employment and counselling services to help job seekers on the path to recovery and find sustainable employment."

The Cairns project is one 20 JSA Demonstration Pilots across Australia, including four in Queensland.

Minister Ellis congratulated PVS Workfind on their new pilot project.

The Australian Government is investing $4.7 million in JSA Demonstration Pilots as part of the Building Australia's Future Workforce skills and training package.

"These pilots, in conjunction with a range of other measures in the package, will strengthen employment services across Australia and maximise the employment outcomes for disadvantaged communities," Ms Ellis said.

For further information on the JSA Demonstration Pilots:http://www.deewr.gov.au/Employment/JSA/EmploymentServices/Pages/jsapilots.aspx

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Kate Ellis' Electorate: Adelaide

Covering 75 sq.km, the electorate includes the Adelaide central business district, North Adelaide, the surrounding parklands and adjacent suburbs in every direction.More about Adelaide